Sport, Religion, Capitalism, and Power.

This paper analyzes the relationship between sport and society. Focusing first on the relationship between religion and capitalism, the paper then moves on to compare and contrast religion as an institution with sport as an institution. A key point of analysis is the extent to which each institution is independent of the economic system. An exploration of the issues of power and how it is exercised by religion, sport, and the economic system, including a discussion of contests and resistance, will be a central focus of the paper. The paper will conclude with an evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of sport as a catalyst for change, especially change relateted to racism, sexism, and class inequalilty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]